Description
Hxtal NYL-1 is a crystal clear epoxy adhesive with exceptional non-yellowing qualities used for the bonding and repair of ceramic and glass.
It remains completely transparent once applied, even after a long period of direct light exposure. Unlike other epoxy adhesives, Hxtal NYL-1 undergoes a stringent purification process during its manufacture which removes all traces of the metal ions which cause yellowing from the epoxy.
This crystal clear quality is why Hxtal NYL-1 is the favoured epoxy of conservation institutions, art museums and glass artists worldwide, including the British Museum who repaired the priceless Portland Vase with Hxtal NYL-1 Epoxy Adhesive.
Hxtal NYL-1 comes in two parts and is mixed at a ratio of three Part A to one Part B by weight in a clean glass. After the initial mixing, Hxtal is extremely thin, making it ideal for penetrating deep cracks in glass and ceramics.
As you drop small amounts of Hxtal into a crack, the epoxy will fill the gaps and the crack will vanish from view. To increase the penetration of Hxtal NYL-1, a hairdryer or UV Lamp can be used to warm the area requiring repair to around 50°C.
For bonding broken pieces back together, the mixed Hxtal NYL-1 is left to thicken before application. This makes the epoxy easier to apply to the parts requiring repair, which are pushed together for Hxtal to form a super-strength bond between them. Any excess Hxtal can be wiped away using a cloth.
Hxtal NYL-1’s initial cure time is 72 hours at 23°C. Broken items are held in place with either tape or clamps whilst curing takes place. Between 24 and 30 hours after application, any excess Hxtal can be removed with a single edge razor blade or razor knife.
The epoxy reaches 90 percent adhesive strength after seven days. Such a long work time enables pieces to be adjusted throughout the curing process, enabling greater accuracy over the repair before permanent bonds are formed.
Hxtal’s cure time can be increased by warming the item being repaired to between 26°C and 37°C for one or two days. Warming should only take place after 36 hours of natural curing, otherwise the strength of the repair can be compromised.
The epoxy can be coloured using microfine powder pigments. Coloured Hxtal used to bond parts together or fill gaps will show as an additional colour, which can add to the design.
For a more detailed guide to using Hxtal NYL-1 Clear Epoxy, please see the article in our Showcase Section Hxtal NYL-1: How to use the world’s best glass and ceramic repair epoxy.
Hxtal is available in either 60g Kits or 700g bulk quantities.
Hxtal NYL-1 Clear Epoxy Testimonials
“Hxtal is the only epoxy known to us that does not yellow even when exposed to light. Because of its ultra-purity, it is the highest-quality clear adhesive in the world.”
Benefits of Hxtal NYL-1 Clear Epoxy
- Exceptional non-yellowing qualities enable it to remain completely transparent
- Low viscosity allows Hxtal to penetrate and repair gaps and cracks
- Longer work time allows pieces to be adjusted for greater accuracy in complex applications
- Can be mixed with microfine powder pigments to create coloured glass effects
Applications
- Repairing broken glass and ceramic
- Penetrating and filling gaps and cracks
- Bonding tasks where no visible glue lines are desired
